Electric motorbike enthusiasts can earn a living by choosing a profession that involves them daily, as part of their work. Whether very young or later in life, you can thus make a living from your passion. Here are some jobs and hustles in the motorcycle industry, along with the necessary prerequisites, to give you some career ideas.
Motorbike Salesperson
On a daily basis, the motorbike salesperson manages customer relationships, identifying their clients' needs in order to best advise them on the purchase of an electric motorbike. Depending on the type of purchase planned, the salesperson offers suitable financing solutions (leasing, loans, etc.) as well as additional services such as insurance or maintenance contracts. Their goal is to achieve sufficient sales to meet their annual targets.
Required qualities:
- Expertise in the motorcycle sector
- Good interpersonal skills, good communication
- Adaptable to all types of clientele
- Autonomy and initiative
Motorbike Mechanic
An electric motorbike does not have parts like the engine, clutch, exhaust pipes, etc, but it does need maintenance just like every other vehicle. In his role, the repair mechanic is responsible for the proper functioning of the mechanical parts on the vehicle, such as the electric motor, brakes, or battery. He ensures their repair, adjustment, maintenance, and upkeep. He also carries out the mandatory technical checks and prepares quotes for the vehicle owner, to inform them of the repairs to be carried out.
Required qualities:
- Great rigor in the execution of tasks
- Excellent mechanical knowledge
- Manual dexterity
- Good customer relations
Motorbike Journalist
With a background in journalism, an electric motorbike tester will execute a defined test plan, thoroughly examine the motorcycle model, and write a detailed report on the findings. To do this, they must be familiar with all the model's specifications and experience them firsthand. They usually work in collaboration with a photographer to capture images that showcase the bike in its best light. As a specialist in the e-bike sector, they can write an objective report on the subject and compare it to other models or previous versions of the motorbike being tested. They get paid for their writing as journalists, and they can also freelance with several magazines at a time.
Required qualities:
- Extensive knowledge of electric motorbikes
- Ability to work with different media (television, photography, internet, etc)
- Professional writing skill
- Objective mindset and versatility
- Capable of completing a test within a defined timeframe
E-bike Riding Instructor
Working independently or within a school, the motorbike riding instructor provides training to novice students so that they can acquire the knowledge and understand the reflexes essential to riding an e-bike. Through individual or group lessons, he corrects bad habits and explains the fundamentals of traffic and safety to students. This is similar to operating a driving school.
Required qualities:
- Good teaching skills
- Patience
- Ability to remain calm
- Thorough knowledge of the road, its customs and traffic rules
Motorbike Racer
The job of a motorbike racer involves riding his bike in races or competitions. There are several disciplines within motorcycle racing. Candidates generally need to have extensive experience in the sport. Becoming a professional racer is difficult because the performance and requirements are demanding. Depending on the competitions, the racer must travel and undergo rigorous training. There are few opportunities in this profession, but perseverance and good professional contacts can contribute to success.
Required qualities:
- Good stress management
- Excellent concentration
- Having good reflexes
- Knowledge of safety rules
- Ability to be very focused
Motorbike Taxi (Public Transport / Ride Hailing)
Motorbike riding is a profession that has gained popularity in large cities across Africa, particularly due to their ability to bypass traffic jams and offer a fast and efficient transportation solution. For instance, their popularity has given them such popular monikers as okada and bodaboda in Nigeria and Kenya respectively; the two largest African markets for motorcycles. This two-wheeled transport service, often used by 9-5ers, tourists, or individuals wishing to avoid the hassles of traffic, requires a certain level of expertise and specific skills.
Required qualities:
- Laudable riding skills
- Responsiveness and adaptability
- Good physical condition
- Knowledge of the city where you work
- Good interpersonal skills
Motorbike Stuntman
The job of a motorbike stunt rider is fascinating and impressive, requiring specific skills and a great deal of courage. This entertainment professional performs acrobatics and stunts on motorcycles for films, commercials, television shows, or live performances. A motorcycle stunt rider must possess perfect control of their machine and great physical and mental stamina.
Required qualities:
- Technical proficiency
- Courage and composure
- Good physical condition
Motorbike Courier (Delivery Riders)
The rise of e-commerce, food delivery, and on-demand logistics has created growing opportunities for motorbike couriers across Africa. As a delivery rider, you're responsible for the safe pickup and delivery of food orders, parcels and groceries, etc. You can work independently or partner with delivery and logistics platforms such as Chowdeck, Glovo, Jumia, Bolt Food, Speedaf, and other local courier companies where applicable.
Required qualities:
- Excellent riding and road safety skills
- Good knowledge of local routes and traffic patterns
- Physical stamina and endurance
- Ability to use delivery and navigation apps
- Professionalism and customer service skills
E-bike Lending (Fleet Management)
Not everyone who owns an electric motorbike has to ride it personally to earn an income. You can choose to build a leasing business by purchasing electric motorbikes and renting them to riders who use them for transport or delivery services. The riders pay an agreed daily, weekly, or monthly fee, creating a steady source of income for the owner.
This business model is becoming increasingly attractive across Africa, especially as e-bikes offer lower fuel and maintenance costs than traditional petrol bikes. For example, Janet, a Kenyan entrepreneur who entered the motorbike leasing business in 2018, was able to better manage her fleet and expand her business from one motorbike to three within just two months after joining M-KOPA.
Required qualities:
- Basic business and financial management skills
- Effective negotiation and tenant/rider management skills
- Good record-keeping and bookkeeping habits
- Ability to manage riders and customer relationships
- Understanding of vehicle maintenance requirements
>> Read other Mobility success stories here.
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